Looking for a reliable tri-lobe PTO shaft to handle your machinery’s power transfer needs? This guide highlights five solid options and explains which user each is best for. You’ll see profiles designed for Bondioli/Pavesi 3–7 series and common tube sizes, with notes on fit, cut-to-length adjustability, and typical use cases. Use this to compare compatibility, ease of installation, and longevity when selecting a PTO shaft for agricultural or general-purpose tasks.
| Product | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weasler 39-3/8″ x 43.5 MM Tri-Lobe Profile 3–4 Series | Farmers needing 3–4 series compatibility | Tri-lobe profile tubing; bondioli/pavesi 3 & 4 |
| Weasler 39-3/8″ x 45 MM Inner Profile 404-6545 | Higher-capacity 5–6 series use | Tri-lobe inner profile; Bondioli/Pavesi 5 & 6 |
| Weasler AB4 Series PTO Driveline Shaft | General purpose, cut-to-length tasks | Tri-lobe shaft profiles; adjustable length |
| Weasler 39-3/8″ x 45 MM Inner Profile 404-6745 | Series 7 New Style applications | Tri-lobe inner profile; Bondioli/Pavesi New Style 7 |
| Weasler 59-1/16″ x 51.5 MM Inner Profile 600-6552 | Extended length, Series 5 use | Tri-lobe profile; Bondioli/Pavesi Series 5 |
Weasler 39-3/8″ Tri-Lobe Profile 3–4 Series (604-6343)
This product uses a tri-lobe profile designed for 3 and 4 series connections. U-Joint cap sizes are 27.0 MM and Cap to Cap spans 70.0 MM for Series 3, or 74.6 MM for Series 4. The tubing fits Bondioli/Pavesi 3 & 4 series. Best for: users replacing mid-range PTO shafts in older tractors or implements that require 3–4 series geometry. Caution: verify cap size and cap-to-cap length match your current assembly to avoid misfit.
Weasler 39-3/8″ Inner Profile 404-6545 (Series 5–6)
Designed for higher-strength needs, this inner profile tri-lobe tubing suits Bondioli/Pavesi 5 & 6 series. U-Joint cap size is 30.2 MM, with Cap to Cap distance of 79.4 MM for Series 5 and 92.0 MM for Series 6. Best for: equipment that demands robust torque transfer in 5–6 series setups. Caution: ensure your existing joint caps and ends align with a 30.2 MM spec to avoid mounting issues.
Weasler 39-3/8″ Inner Profile 404-6745 (Series 7 New Style)
This inner-profile tri-lobe tubing is tailored for Bondioli/Pavesi New Style 7 Series. It features a cap size of 34.9 MM and Cap to Cap of 94.0 MM, aligning with longer-drive needs. Best for: newer, heavier-duty implements requiring a larger lug footprint. Caution: confirm compatibility with your specific 7 Series end fittings before purchase.
Weasler 59-1/16″ Inner Profile 600-6552
This long, 59-1/16″ shaft is designed for Series 5 applications with a 30.2 MM cap size and a Cap to Cap distance of 79.4 MM for Series 5. It uses a tri-lobe inner profile compatible with Bondioli/Pavesi Series 5 components. Best for: equipment needing extended reach without sacrificing the tri-lobe fit. Caution: confirm the extended length works within your machine’s PTO housing to prevent interference.
Notes on Choosing The Right Tri-Lobe PTO Shaft
- Match U-Joint Cap Size: Verify cap size on both ends of the shaft to ensure a snug fit with existing joints.
- Check Cap-to-Cap Length: Measure the space between end joints to pick the correct overall length.
- Profile Compatibility: Ensure the product’s tri-lobe profile aligns with your Bondioli/Pavesi or other brand’s series (3–7).
- Length Adjustability: Some models are cut-to-length; consider whether you need a ready-to-install option or a customizable shaft.
- Application Type: Choose based on whether your setup is general-purpose, heavy-duty, or requires extended reach.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations and Comparisons
- What series does my implement require? Series compatibility (3–7) guides initial choices.
- Do I need inner profile or wall profile tubing? Inner profile often supports higher torque; wall profiles can be simpler and stronger in certain applications.
- Is cut-to-length important for my setup? If yes, AB4 and similar models offer adjustability, reducing the need for precise factory lengths.
- What is the required joint cap size? This determines fit and prevents binding or slippage during operation.
- What is the working environment? For high-torque or longer shafts, verify strength of the tubing and the compatibility of Bondioli/Pavesi components.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a tri-lobe PTO shaft? A shaft with a three-lobed cross-section that aligns with specific U-joint ends, providing a compact and strong connection for power transfer.
- Which series should I choose for farm equipment? If you use 3–4 series implements, choose a 3–4 profile; for 5–6 series, pick 5–6 profiles, and so on.
- Do I need a cut-to-length shaft? If your mounting points are not standard, a cut-to-length model helps achieve a precise fit.
- Are inner profile shafts stronger than wall profile? Inner profile shafts are typically designed for higher torque and precise alignment in certain series, but both types have applications depending on the load and fits.
- How do I measure Cap to Cap length? Measure from the external end of one U-joint cap to the opposite end of the other cap, excluding threaded areas or flanges.
- Can I mix brands? It’s best to stick to the same brand family (Bondioli/Pavesi or equivalent) for predictable fit, unless you verify cross-compatibility for your specific model.